Students Supporting Seniors through Messages of Hope And Encouragement

by Caroline Franks
Categories: Divisional News
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Two students at Western University in London, Ontario are gathering messages of hope and encouragement for those living in long-term care and retirement residents including The Salvation Army’s Ottawa Grace Manor.

Divya Balendra and Vedanth Desaigoudar are collecting items from other post-secondary students as well as students from elementary schools with the help of their teachers.

They have received submissions including poems, drawings, paintings, video of people singing and playing instruments, letters and messages to let seniors know they are well thought of.

“Many of those living in retirement and long-term care homes aren’t able to be with their friends and family right now which can be really difficult for their mental health, so we wanted to do something to help,” said Divya.” We decided to bridge the gap between seniors and students by creating works of art and messages for seniors to lift their spirits.”

“It’s really nice to see how everyone is coming together to share their creativity with seniors,” said Vedanth.

Divya and Vedanth have sent submissions to The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor as well as retirement homes in the Greater Toronto Area including Richmond Hill, Scarborough and Thornhill.

“Our residents are so happy to receive these kind messages, pictures and poems,” said Mark Rutherford Grace Manor Volunteer Lead.

One of the Ottawa Grace Manor residents commented “This is very thoughtful of people to send pictures and poems to us.” Another resident added “They are very beautiful and detailed.”

For those that would like to get involved and send messages or artwork please contact Divya and Vedanth by email at creationsforcovid@gmail.com , on Instagram @creations_for_covid or Facebook @creationsforcovid

To support the work of The Salvation Army please visit www.salvationarmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.